How McNair identifies ‘Kings DNA’ while constructing roster

How McNair identifies ‘Kings DNA’ while constructing roster originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Monte McNair, as the mastermind behind the astonishing turnaround of the Sacramento Kings, has successfully transformed the team from an NBA laughingstock to a true contender within just a few short seasons.

During Kings Media Day, McNair joined Morgan Ragan of NBC Sports California to shed light on the specific attributes the organization seeks in players while constructing their roster.

“We look for competitors, individuals who display a strong desire to play hard and find ways to win,” McNair shared, crediting Vice President of Basketball Operations Phil Jabour for coining the term ‘Kings DNA.’ “We prioritize high basketball IQ players who can navigate the intricacies of Coach Mike Brown and Coach Jordi Fernandez’s defensive strategies, incorporating elements like passing and cutting into their game. Additionally, we value players who are relentlessly driven to improve themselves and contribute to the team.”

“Fortunately, we’ve been successful in attracting players who possess these qualities, and the beauty of it is that once they join the team, they continue to develop internally and elevate their teammates. They conquer challenges head-on, fully prepared to overcome adversity,” he emphasized.

Following McNair and his front office’s blueprint, the Kings brought in veteran players like Kevin Huerter and Malik Monk, who played pivotal roles in the team’s first winning season in over 15 years.

In addition, they made a valuable draft selection in Keegan Murray, whose outstanding rookie season earned him a well-deserved spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team.

Perhaps most significantly, this vision enabled the Kings to identify De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis as the pillars of their future success.

Constructing a thriving culture serves as the crucial starting point for revitalizing any struggling franchise, and McNair and his staff have skillfully turned the tides for a hungry Kings team determined to build on their incredibly successful 2022-23 season.